Thursday, November 18, 2010

a little bit 'bout me...

I grew up in Boston listening and dancing to Latin music my whole life. Not one Saturday morning would go by in my home without the sound of music blasting and warm tortillas and beans cooking.

I lived a modest life in terms of tangible things but one filled with intangible riches-family, friends, and food. All of these things gathered around my cultural roots mixed with American influences and centered around music.

I would listen to hip hop with my cousin, Pain, and rock with my other cousin, Patty. Soca, Reggae, and Calypso with my uncle. And of course Punta with my mom. Salsa, Merengue and Bachata were an obvious influence by the diverse countries of Latin America represented in Boston growing up.

There were dance parties in my family at least once per month and while I was usually shy about dancing at those, I watched with much intent as I saw my cousins dance all night long.

Since then, I've continued to live my culture and listen to the music that I grew up with. Living away from my family and starting my own culturally diverse family meant that I had to find opportunities to dance. I learned and was exposed to Polynesian-style beats and music. But my deeply rooted passion for my own music was not sufficiently enriched. Life gets busy for us all.

Since I became exposed to Zumba back in 2006 I have become addicted. With Zumba I get to relive and FEEL those childhood memories for a whole hour. My love for my culture and dance is not traditionally fulfilled-since it is without the heels and food (most of the time). But through the music of Zumba and the basic movements of the body I am able to enjoy and appreciate my wonderful Latin culture. I became a certified Zumba Instructor in June of 2010 so that I may share that with everyone who attends my class. Zumba truly unites individuals from all backgrounds.

All I ask is that you leave your worries and inhibitions at the door. Come in and FEEL the MUSIC. Allow yourself to have an hour dedicated to YOU and to revitalizing your mind and body at the same time while PARTYing and dancing.

Hope to see you in class! :)